Q1. [3] deep thorough-understanding
The bamboo drip irrigation system in Meghalaya transports water over hundreds of metres, eventually reducing the flow to just 20–80 drops per minute at the plant site. Why is this drastic reduction in flow rate at the final stage an advantage rather than a drawback for the crops being irrigated?
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 13:31 · grounding rag
Model Answer
The drastic reduction in flow rate — from litres per minute to just 20–80 drops per minute — is an advantage because it delivers water directly and slowly near the roots of the plant. This ensures:
- Minimal wastage — water is not lost to runoff, evaporation, or over-saturation of soil.
- Precise delivery — reduced channel sections and diversion units at the last stage enable water to be dropped exactly near the roots, where it is needed most.
- Efficient use — slow, steady dripping allows the soil to absorb water gradually, ensuring crops receive a continuous, controlled supply without waterlogging.
This makes the bamboo drip system an efficient, waste-free method of irrigation suited to the hilly terrain of Meghalaya.
Source: Water Resources, Chapter 3 (Bamboo Drip Irrigation System)
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Explanation
- The examiner wants you to connect the reduced flow rate directly to the benefit for crops — not just describe the system.
- Key points: water reaches roots precisely, no wastage, continuous slow supply = better absorption.
- The passage states: "The last channel section enables water to be dropped near the roots of the plant" — quote or paraphrase this for full marks.
- Avoid just describing the system; you must explain why the slow drip is beneficial — that's what the question asks.